Chronic urticaria: omalizumab and review of therapeutic options.

Chronic idiopathic urticaria is a rare but significantly life-altering skin disease. Recent developments in immunology have promoted our understanding of its autoimmune pathology, but treatment options have not yet developed at the same pace. When antihistamines aren't sufficient, the next steps for treatment have less evidence for support. Fortunately, a Phase III clinical trial has shown that the monoclonal antibody omalizumab, approved for use in asthma, can reduce symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria when added to maximal doses of H1-antihistamines. Therapeutic options for chronic idiopathic urticaria are reviewed.